Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A system for detecting a source of noise in a hybrid fiber-coaxial (HFC) network, the HFC network including a headend, a cable modem termination system (CMTS) or other termination to exchange signals with clients through a plurality of taps, the system comprising: a plurality of switches connected to the taps, the switches including first connectors on an exterior backside and second connectors on an exterior frontside and circuitry within an interior, the first connectors being attached to coaxial connectors extending from an exterior of the connected-to tap and the second connectors being attached to cabling previously used to interface the clients with the connected-to tap, the circuitry interconnecting the first connectors with the second connectors and being independently controllable to selectively block and pass the signals therebetween; and a detection device at the termination for detecting a source of noise in the HFC network based on variations in noise measurements made at the termination while different combinations of the switches are being controlled to block the signals.
This technical summary describes a system for identifying noise sources in hybrid fiber-coaxial (HFC) networks, which combine fiber-optic and coaxial cable technologies to deliver broadband services. The system addresses the challenge of locating noise sources in such networks, which can degrade signal quality and disrupt service. The system includes multiple switches connected to taps in the HFC network. Each switch has connectors on its exterior backside and frontside, with the backside connectors linked to coaxial cables extending from the tap and the frontside connectors attached to cables previously used to connect clients to the tap. The switches contain internal circuitry that can selectively block or pass signals between these connectors, allowing controlled isolation of network segments. A detection device at the network termination (e.g., a cable modem termination system or CMTS) measures noise variations while different combinations of switches are activated to block signals. By analyzing these measurements, the system can pinpoint the source of noise in the network. This approach enables targeted troubleshooting and maintenance, improving network reliability and performance.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein the detection device wirelessly transmits control messages to the switches to control the switches, the control messages specifying a length in time for the switch in receipt thereof is to block signaling between one or more of the first and second connectors before automatically returning to a closed position, the detection device determining the length based on services being accessed such that the length is specified in the control messages to be less than that needed to disrupt the services.
This invention relates to a system for managing electrical connections, particularly in environments where temporary disconnection of power or signaling is required without disrupting ongoing services. The system includes a detection device and multiple switches, each switch having first and second connectors for establishing electrical connections. The detection device monitors the system and wirelessly transmits control messages to the switches to regulate their operation. These control messages instruct the switches to block signaling between the connectors for a specific duration before automatically returning to a closed position. The duration is dynamically determined by the detection device based on the services being accessed, ensuring the interruption is brief enough to avoid service disruptions. The system is designed to prevent unintended disconnections while allowing controlled, temporary interruptions when necessary, such as for maintenance or safety protocols. The wireless communication between the detection device and switches enables real-time adjustments to the interruption duration, enhancing flexibility and reliability in managing electrical connections.
3. The system of claim 1 wherein the second connectors shaped to mirror the coaxial connectors extending from the exterior of the connected-to tap such that the second connectors are arranged in the same pattern as the coaxial connectors thereby resulting in the second connectors having essentially the same dimensions and spacing as the coaxial connectors.
This invention relates to a system for interfacing with a tap device used in cable television or data distribution networks. The problem addressed is the need for a standardized and efficient connection method between a tap and downstream equipment, such as amplifiers or splitters, while ensuring proper alignment and compatibility with existing coaxial connector configurations. The system includes a housing with a first set of connectors designed to interface with coaxial connectors extending from the exterior of a tap. These connectors are arranged in a specific pattern to match the tap's coaxial connectors, ensuring proper alignment and connection. The housing also includes a second set of connectors, shaped to mirror the coaxial connectors of the tap, meaning they are arranged in the same pattern with essentially the same dimensions and spacing. This mirroring ensures compatibility with downstream equipment, allowing for seamless integration into existing network setups. The system may also include a locking mechanism to secure the housing to the tap, preventing accidental disconnection and ensuring a stable connection. The design simplifies installation and maintenance while maintaining signal integrity.
4. The system of claim 3 wherein a switch housing of the switches mimics a tap housing of the taps such that the switch housing and the tap housing have approximately the same width and height, and wherein the first connectors have a hollow body to fit over top of the coaxial connectors and the second connectors have a threaded body for threading to the cabling.
This invention relates to a system for integrating switches and taps in a coaxial cable network, addressing the challenge of maintaining a uniform and aesthetically consistent installation while ensuring reliable connectivity. The system includes switches and taps designed to interface with coaxial cables, where the switch housing is designed to mimic the tap housing in dimensions, specifically having approximately the same width and height. This design ensures a cohesive appearance when installed in a network. The switches and taps feature first connectors with a hollow body that fits over the coaxial connectors, allowing for a secure and streamlined connection. Additionally, the second connectors have a threaded body for threading directly to the cabling, providing a robust and stable attachment. The system may also include a mounting plate with slots for securing the switches and taps, ensuring proper alignment and organization. The overall design simplifies installation and maintenance while maintaining a professional and uniform look in the network infrastructure.
5. The system of claim 1 wherein the circuitry includes independent signaling paths between aligned first and second connectors such that each signaling path interconnects the first connectors with no more than one of the second connectors, each signaling path including an independently controllable, solid-state switch capable of being controlled between an opened position and a closed position to mitigate the noise, the opened position blocking signaling through the corresponding signaling path and the closed position permitting signaling through the corresponding signaling path.
This invention relates to a system for managing signal routing in electronic devices, particularly addressing noise mitigation in high-speed data transmission. The system includes a set of first connectors and a set of second connectors, where each first connector is aligned with one or more second connectors. The circuitry within the system features independent signaling paths between these aligned connectors, ensuring that each signaling path connects a first connector to no more than one second connector. Each signaling path contains an independently controllable, solid-state switch that can be toggled between an open and closed position. In the open position, the switch blocks signal transmission through the path, while in the closed position, it allows signaling to pass. This selective switching capability enables dynamic control over signal routing, reducing interference and noise by isolating or activating specific paths as needed. The solid-state switches provide fast, reliable switching without mechanical wear, making the system suitable for high-frequency applications. The design ensures minimal crosstalk and signal degradation, improving overall data integrity in environments where multiple signal paths must coexist.
6. The system of claim 5 wherein the circuitry includes a default setting for the solid-state switches that requires the switches to remain in the closed position unless being controlled to the opened position, the default setting automatically controlling the solid-state switches from the opened position to the closed position within at least 200 ms of being controlled to the opened position in order to prevent disrupting services.
This invention relates to a power distribution system with solid-state switches designed to enhance reliability and minimize service disruptions. The system addresses the problem of unintended power interruptions caused by transient faults or control errors in power distribution networks. The solid-state switches are configured with a default setting that ensures they remain in the closed (conducting) position unless actively controlled to open. If the switches are opened due to a fault or command, they automatically return to the closed position within 200 milliseconds to restore power and prevent prolonged service disruptions. This fail-safe mechanism helps maintain continuous power delivery, particularly in critical applications where even brief interruptions are undesirable. The system may also include monitoring and control circuitry to detect faults, manage switch states, and ensure rapid recovery. The default closed-state configuration reduces the risk of unintended power loss while allowing for controlled disconnections when necessary. This approach improves system resilience and reliability in power distribution networks.
7. The system of claim 5 further comprising: a plurality of cable modems connected downstream of the switches to facilitate interfacing the signals with the client at client locations, the cable modems including capabilities for wirelessly transmitting noise instructions when detecting noise ingress thereat; and wherein the circuitry includes an antenna for wirelessly receiving the noise instructions from the cable modems, the noise instructions being sufficient for the originating cable modem to selectively control the solid-state switch of the second connector associated therewith to the opened position to block the noise ingress.
This invention relates to a noise management system for cable networks, specifically addressing noise ingress issues that degrade signal quality in data transmission. The system includes multiple cable modems connected downstream of network switches, enabling communication between the network and client devices. Each cable modem is equipped with wireless transmission capabilities to detect and report noise ingress events. When a cable modem identifies noise interference, it sends wireless noise instructions to a central circuitry component. This circuitry includes an antenna for receiving the noise instructions and is connected to solid-state switches within the network connectors. Upon receiving the instructions, the circuitry selectively opens the associated solid-state switch to block the noise ingress path, thereby mitigating signal degradation. The system dynamically adjusts network connectivity to isolate noise sources while maintaining service continuity for unaffected clients. This approach improves signal integrity and reduces the need for manual troubleshooting in cable networks.
8. A method for mitigating noise in a network comprising: measuring a noise in the network at a termination device, the termination device being positioned at a convergence in the network where signaling commonly funnels from a plurality of taps, each of the taps including tap connectors for connecting to cabling used to carry signaling between the tap and client devices downstream thereof; after measuring the noise, interspersing a plurality of interconnects between the taps and the cabling, the interconnects including first connectors for connecting to the tap connectors and second connectors for connecting to the cabling, the interconnects including circuitry for defining signaling paths between each of the first connectors and no more than one of the second connectors, each signaling path including a switch capable of being controlled between an opened position and a closed position, the opened position blocking signaling through the signaling path and the closed position permitting signaling through the signaling path; and controlling one or more of the switches from a closed position to an opened position to facilitate mitigating the noise.
This invention relates to noise mitigation in network systems, specifically addressing interference issues in networks where multiple taps converge at a termination device. The problem arises when noise generated by client devices or external sources propagates through shared cabling, degrading signal quality. The solution involves a termination device positioned at the network convergence point, where signaling from multiple taps funnels in. The method includes measuring noise levels at this device, then interspersing interconnects between the taps and their downstream cabling. These interconnects contain circuitry that defines dedicated signaling paths, each with a switch that can be opened or closed. By selectively opening switches, the system blocks noisy paths, reducing overall interference. The interconnects ensure each tap connector is linked to only one cabling connector, preventing cross-talk. The switches are controlled dynamically to isolate noisy segments, improving signal integrity. This approach is particularly useful in environments with high noise susceptibility, such as residential or commercial networks with multiple connected devices. The system enhances performance by selectively disabling problematic connections while maintaining operational paths.
9. The method of claim 8 further comprising: a plurality of operator devices being connected to the cabling downstream of the interconnects to facilitate interfacing signaling with the client devices at client locations, the operator devices including capabilities for proactive network maintenance and for wirelessly transmitting noise instructions when detecting noise ingress thereat; and wherein the interconnects include an antenna for wirelessly receiving the noise instructions from the operator devices, the noise instructions being sufficient for the originating operator device to selectively control the switch of the second connector associated therewith to the opened position to mitigate the noise ingress.
This invention relates to a network communication system designed to mitigate noise ingress in a distributed network infrastructure. The system includes a central office with a switch matrix, multiple client locations connected via a cabling network, and interconnects that link the central office to the client locations. Each interconnect has a first connector coupled to the central office and a second connector coupled to the cabling network, with the second connector including a switch that can be opened or closed to control signal flow. The system also includes operator devices connected downstream of the interconnects at client locations. These operator devices interface with client devices and perform proactive network maintenance. When an operator device detects noise ingress, it wirelessly transmits noise instructions to the interconnects. Each interconnect is equipped with an antenna to receive these instructions, which instruct the originating operator device to selectively open the switch of the associated second connector, thereby mitigating the noise ingress. This approach allows for dynamic noise management by isolating affected segments of the network.
10. The method of claim 8 further comprising: measuring a first noise at the termination device at a first instance coinciding with one or more first switches of the switches being controlled to the opened position; measuring a second noise at the termination device at a second instance coinciding with one or more second switches of the switches being controlled to the opened position; comparing the noise to the first and second noises to detect a source of the noise; and controlling the first and second switches from the closed position to the opened position using wirelessly transmitted control messages.
A method for noise source detection and switch control in electrical systems involves monitoring noise levels at a termination device to identify the origin of electrical disturbances. The method measures a first noise level at the termination device when one or more first switches are opened, and a second noise level when one or more second switches are opened. By comparing these noise measurements, the system can determine the source of the noise. The switches are controlled wirelessly, transitioning from a closed to an open state via wirelessly transmitted control messages. This approach enables precise identification of noise sources in electrical networks by systematically isolating different sections of the system. The method is particularly useful in power distribution systems where noise or faults must be quickly and accurately located to maintain reliability. The wireless control aspect allows for remote and automated management of switches, improving efficiency and reducing manual intervention. The technique leverages noise measurement as a diagnostic tool, enhancing fault detection capabilities in electrical infrastructure.
11. The method of claim 10 further comprising: determining signaling-dependent services accessed through the switches being controlled to the opened position; and specifying a bounce within the control messages based on the services being accessed, the bounce specifying a length of time for the switch in receipt thereof to be in the opened position before automatically returning to the closed position, including selecting the length of time to be less than that needed to disconnect from the services being accessed.
This invention relates to network switch control systems, specifically for managing switch positions based on signaling-dependent services. The problem addressed is the need to dynamically control network switches to optimize service access while minimizing disruptions. The system monitors services accessed through switches and adjusts switch positions accordingly. When a switch is opened to allow access to a service, the system determines the specific service being accessed and generates control messages that include a "bounce" parameter. This bounce parameter specifies how long the switch should remain open before automatically returning to the closed position. The bounce duration is intentionally set shorter than the time required to fully disconnect from the service, ensuring that the switch does not remain open unnecessarily. This approach allows for efficient service access while maintaining network stability and reducing potential disruptions. The system dynamically adapts to different services, optimizing switch behavior based on real-time access patterns. The invention improves network performance by balancing service availability with switch stability, reducing unnecessary disruptions while ensuring reliable service access.
12. A method for mitigating noise in a network, the network employing a bounded medium to facilitate carrying signals between a termination and a plurality of taps, the method comprising: determining a noise at the termination resulting from ingress signaling funneled thereto from an unknown one or more of the taps, each of the taps including one or more coaxial connectors for attaching to cabling used to interface signaling with additional portions of the network; disconnecting the cabling from and removably attaching a plurality of switches to at least a portion of the coaxial connectors such that the switches are positioned between the tap and the cabling previously connected thereto, each of the switches including: i) first connectors attached to the coaxial connectors; ii) second connectors attached to the cabling; and iii) circuitry enclosed within a housing to controllably interface signaling between the first and second connectors, the circuitry being controllable between closed positions and opened positions to respectively permit and prevent signaling between the first and second connectors; and selectively controlling the switches between the closed and opened positions to identify the switches capable of mitigating the noise.
This invention relates to noise mitigation in a network using a bounded medium, such as a coaxial cable network, where signals are carried between a termination and multiple taps. The problem addressed is the ingress of noise at the termination, which originates from one or more unknown taps in the network. Each tap includes coaxial connectors that interface with cabling to extend signaling to other parts of the network. The method involves disconnecting the cabling from the coaxial connectors at the taps and attaching a plurality of switches in their place. These switches are positioned between the tap and the previously connected cabling. Each switch has first connectors attached to the coaxial connectors of the tap, second connectors attached to the cabling, and internal circuitry enclosed in a housing. The circuitry can be controlled to either permit or prevent signaling between the first and second connectors by switching between closed and opened positions. By selectively controlling the switches between these positions, the method identifies which switches can mitigate the noise. This process helps isolate the source of the noise by systematically testing the impact of each switch's state on the noise level at the termination. The goal is to determine which taps are contributing to the noise, allowing for targeted mitigation.
13. The method of claim 12 further comprising executing a detection process according to instructions issued from the termination or a tester connected proximate thereto, the detection process iteratively controlling the switches between the opened and closed positions to determine a combination of the switches sufficient to isolate a source of the noise.
This invention relates to noise isolation in electrical systems, specifically for identifying and mitigating sources of electrical noise in a circuit. The method involves a system with multiple switches that can be opened or closed to control signal paths within the circuit. The switches are initially set to a default configuration, and a detection process is executed to systematically test different switch combinations. This process involves iteratively opening and closing the switches in various configurations to analyze how each change affects the noise levels in the circuit. By monitoring the noise output during these iterations, the system can determine which switch positions isolate or reduce the noise, effectively identifying the source of the disturbance. The detection process is controlled by instructions from a termination device or a tester connected to the system, allowing for automated or manual adjustment of the switches to pinpoint the noise source. The method ensures that the switches are manipulated in a structured manner to efficiently narrow down the potential sources of noise, improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing the time required for troubleshooting. This approach is particularly useful in complex electrical systems where noise sources are difficult to locate manually.
14. The method of claim 13 further comprising executing the detection process without disrupting services being accessed by clients connected to the cabling.
This invention relates to network monitoring and diagnostics, specifically for detecting issues in cabling infrastructure without interrupting services for connected clients. The problem addressed is the need to identify faults or performance degradation in network cabling while maintaining uninterrupted connectivity for end-users. The method involves analyzing network traffic patterns, signal integrity, or other diagnostic metrics to detect anomalies indicative of cabling issues. The detection process is designed to operate passively, meaning it does not inject test signals or otherwise interfere with normal network operations. This allows for continuous monitoring without causing disruptions to clients accessing services through the cabling. The system may use machine learning or statistical analysis to differentiate between normal traffic variations and potential faults. The method ensures that diagnostic activities do not degrade performance or availability for connected devices, making it suitable for environments where downtime is unacceptable. The approach may involve analyzing packet loss, latency, or error rates to infer cabling health without requiring active probing. By operating transparently, the system enables proactive maintenance and troubleshooting without impacting user experience.
15. The method of claim 13 further comprising iteratively controlling the switches to the opened position for no more than 200ms, the 200ms corresponding with a duration insufficient to interrupt services for clients connected to the taps.
A method for managing network traffic in a data center or telecommunications system involves controlling switches connected to network taps to prevent service interruptions. The method includes iteratively opening the switches for a brief duration, specifically no more than 200 milliseconds, to ensure that connected clients experience no service disruptions. This duration is intentionally short to avoid affecting ongoing data transmissions or user sessions. The method may also involve monitoring network conditions, such as traffic load or latency, to determine when to open the switches. The switches are typically used to redirect or isolate network traffic for testing, maintenance, or security purposes without impacting end-user services. The iterative control ensures that the switches can be opened and closed repeatedly as needed, maintaining network stability while allowing for necessary adjustments. The method is particularly useful in environments where continuous uptime is critical, such as cloud computing or enterprise networks.
16. The method of claim 13 further comprising iteratively controlling the switches to the opened position for a duration not to exceed a threshold, the threshold being based on the detection process performing an assessment of services being accessed by the clients and correspondingly selected to be less than a length of time needed to disconnect the clients from the services.
This invention relates to network management systems that control client access to services by dynamically adjusting switch positions. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless service continuity while preventing unauthorized or excessive access. The method involves monitoring client-service interactions and selectively opening network switches to manage access. When a switch is opened, it disconnects clients from services, but the duration of this disconnection is carefully controlled to avoid service interruptions. The threshold for how long a switch remains open is determined by analyzing the services being accessed and ensuring the disconnection time is shorter than what would cause a noticeable disruption to the clients. This iterative control process allows the system to dynamically adjust access without degrading user experience. The method ensures that clients remain connected to critical services while preventing unauthorized or prolonged access to restricted resources. The system assesses service dependencies and client requirements to optimize switch timing, maintaining network security and reliability.
17. The method of claim 13 further comprising controlling the switches between the opened and closed positions using wireless signaling transmitted thereto independently of the bounded medium.
A system and method for managing electrical power distribution in a networked environment addresses the challenge of efficiently controlling power flow in distributed systems, particularly where wired communication may be unreliable or impractical. The invention involves a network of power distribution nodes interconnected by a bounded medium, such as a power line or dedicated communication line, where each node includes switches to regulate power flow. The system further incorporates wireless signaling to independently control the switches, allowing for remote and flexible adjustment of power distribution without relying solely on the bounded medium. This wireless control enables dynamic reconfiguration of the network, improving reliability and adaptability in scenarios where wired communication may be disrupted or where nodes are geographically dispersed. The switches can be toggled between opened and closed positions based on wireless commands, ensuring seamless power management even in adverse conditions. The combination of bounded medium connectivity and wireless signaling enhances system resilience, enabling real-time adjustments to power distribution in response to changing demands or faults. This approach is particularly useful in smart grid applications, industrial power networks, and other distributed energy systems where robust and flexible control mechanisms are required.
18. The method of claim 13 further comprising controlling the switches between the opened and closed positions using signaling transmitted thereto over the bounded medium.
This invention relates to a system for managing electrical power distribution in a network, particularly for controlling switches that regulate power flow between nodes. The problem addressed is the need for reliable and efficient switch control in power distribution networks, especially in environments where communication over a bounded medium (such as a power line or dedicated control line) is preferred for robustness and security. The method involves a network of nodes interconnected by power lines, where each node includes switches that can be opened or closed to control power flow. The switches are controlled by signaling transmitted over the bounded medium, ensuring coordinated and secure operation. The system may also include a central controller or distributed logic to manage switch states based on network conditions, such as load balancing, fault detection, or power routing optimization. The bounded medium provides a dedicated communication path, reducing interference and improving reliability compared to wireless or external signaling methods. This approach enhances grid stability, reduces power losses, and enables dynamic reconfiguration of the network in response to changing demands or faults. The invention is particularly useful in smart grid applications, microgrids, or industrial power distribution systems where precise and secure switch control is critical.
19. The method of claim 12 further comprising attaching the switches proximate to the taps using no more than the coaxial connectors in support.
A method for installing and supporting switches in a network system, particularly in environments where switches are connected to taps for monitoring or managing network traffic. The method addresses the challenge of securely mounting switches near taps without requiring additional mechanical support structures. The switches are attached directly to the taps using only coaxial connectors, eliminating the need for extra mounting hardware. This approach simplifies installation, reduces costs, and ensures stability by leveraging the existing coaxial connections. The method may also include configuring the switches to monitor or manage network traffic through the taps, ensuring seamless integration into the network infrastructure. The coaxial connectors provide both electrical connectivity and physical support, ensuring the switches remain securely positioned. This technique is particularly useful in data centers, enterprise networks, or other environments where space and installation efficiency are critical. The method ensures reliable operation while minimizing the need for additional components or complex mounting solutions.
20. The method of claim 12 further comprising attaching the switches to fasteners associated with the coaxial connectors.
A method for improving the installation and reliability of coaxial cable connections involves securing switches to fasteners associated with coaxial connectors. This method is particularly useful in telecommunications and networking systems where coaxial cables are frequently connected and disconnected. The problem addressed is the potential for loose or unreliable connections, which can lead to signal degradation or complete failure. By attaching switches to the fasteners of the coaxial connectors, the method ensures that the switches are properly aligned and secured, reducing the risk of disconnection or poor contact. The switches may be used to control signal routing, power distribution, or other functions within the coaxial system. The fasteners, which could include screws, clips, or other mechanical fasteners, provide a stable mounting point for the switches, ensuring they remain in place during use. This method enhances the durability and performance of coaxial cable connections in various applications, including cable television, internet service, and industrial communication systems. The switches may be integrated into the connectors or attached as separate components, depending on the specific design requirements. The overall approach improves the reliability of coaxial connections by ensuring that critical components, such as switches, are securely fastened to the connectors.
Unknown
September 15, 2020
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